![]() The recent resurgence in the Black Lives Matter movement is proof. This is wrong, because it is here and exists right now all around the world. At the turn of the century, many believe that the struggle is over. This graphic novel details the long history of African Americans. But I suppose that since there is so much to tell in the struggles and journeys of African Americans in history as opposed to the more personal accounts in Maus or Persepolis. Also, while the storytelling was compelling and reflective, it was at times rushed, particularly towards the end, and the style wasn't as effective in conveying the story as Maus or Persepolis did. However, I did find it difficult at times as the lettering would change fonts that were hard to read. ![]() ![]() The story of struggle starts at the veeeery beginning, something I've never read about. To say that I've learnt a lot reading this would be a massive understatement. We can look back at it for wisdom, but also to learn from our mistakes and missed opportunities." Our history is a collective spirit, memory and imagination. There is a lot that we can understand in today's America if we educate ourselves on how we got here and the injustice that Black people have faced in America since their first arrival and the consequences of which continue to this day. Still it's nice that the book ends with a note of hope (sadly, a hope that hasn't really carried us through to today).Ī very important read for those who want a quick primer for the history of the Black Experience in the US. While the frustration is appreciated, the 180 tone shift from the first 90% of the book is sudden and surprising. Our two narrators that take us through the journey suddenly appear to be antagonistic with each other due to their differing views of recent events. While the recent history since the first publishing is appreciated, the art/lettering style changes in a way that is distracting and the entire tone is different. I'm also not a fan of the additional 20 or so pages appended for the second edition (2009). There are some issues with the way the panels are laid out at times which makes it confusing to follow (the inclusion of arrows on some pages to guide the reader in the most egregious cases shows that this challenge may have been foreseen prior to publication). I would argue that while Bey's simplistic drawings don't distract from the history being told, they also don't really enhance the experience for the reader. The graphical novel format is an interesting choice here. It covers a lot of ground, so obviously you don't get the detail that would be like at times but it appears to do a good job covering the key figures and events in a way that allows the reader to do their own research on any topics of interest. A great introduction to those not as familiar with many of the events that have brought us to where we are today. ![]() The history of Black America told in a graphical novel. ![]()
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